Two hundred years ago, the term ‘beer and skittles’ started to turn up in literature as an expression of fun and exuberance (particularly while drinking). Skittles at that time was a nine-pin variation on tenpin bowling. So if you turn up to The Dock and ask for Beer and Skittles, you are going to get a unusual take. In the bottom of your beer glass will be a handful of skittles, the hard candy-type lollies from North America, topped up with beer. That is the tone of The Dock. It’s fun and a little out there, but the perfect bar for escaping some of the pretentiousness that Sydney seems to have in abundance.

On the drinks side of things, The Dock would have to be the best value of the small bars currently open in Sydney. Starting at $5 for a bottle of Carter beer (half the price of what you’d expect in most Sydney bars and clubs), the other beer options are a dollar or two more. Keep an eye on the specials board for the $10 cocktail (or docktail as they like to call them), but even the standard cocktails are a bargain, and a mixed spirit drink will come in around $8. The food is also reasonably priced and while not fancy, it hits the spot.

In brief: The DockBest things: Inexpensive drinks, fun environmentDon't miss: Beer and skittles, plus you can test the effects of alcohol on your co-ordination by asking for one of the board games such as jengaIdeal for: Small groups, catch-ups with friends, after work drinks, datesDate tip: Front window couch or down in the back roomGripe: It’s not the best look to see the mid-riff on a male barmanRating: 8/10

Last updated: June 2014
You are here: The Dock, Redfern review and address. Fun and a little out there, but the perfect bar for escaping some of the Sydney's pretentiousness